Dear Voter, My judicial philosophy is to serve the community and promote the safety and well-being of its citizens. As a judge, I have protected the rights of victims, witnesses, and children. Everyone in my court room is treated fairly and with dignity and respect. A judge should apply the law, not make law. My pledge to you is to maintain these values and keep your family safe. Please vote for me on April 7, 2009.

Municipal Judge J. D. Watts, 57, was born and raised in the Milwaukee area. He is the father of four adult children: Catherine, Samuel, Anne, and Alex and proud grandfather of Charlotte and Noah.

Watts received his Juris Doctor from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1977.   He also attended the University of Chicago Law School from 1975- 1976.  He earned a B.A. with Honors in American History from Oberlin College and was awarded Phi Beta Kappa.   He graduated from the University School of Milwaukee Cum Laude in 1970.

A former Assistant District Attorney in the Milwaukee District Attorney's Office, his assignments included First Amendment cases, general felony team vertical prosecutions, vertical prosecutions utilizing undercover drug officers and homicides.   He tried over 50 jury trials.

J.D. with son-in-law Ted (left) and children Catherine, Anne, Alex, and Sam

An attorney skilled in many areas of the law, he operates J.D. Watts Law Office.   He has practiced in children's law, juvenile law, family law, criminal law, civil law and business law.   He is a Guardian ad Litem for children in children's court cases.

He currently serves as Fox Point Municipal Judge and has presided in Glendale Municipal Court.

He is a member of the Wisconsin Municipal Judges Association, State Bar of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Bar Association and co-chair of the MBA Bench/Bar Juvenile Committee.

J.D.'s grandchildren, Noah and Charlotte

Watts is President of the Board of Directors of his family's business, George Watts & Son, Inc.

Commitment to the Community:

Judge Watts has supported many community organizations throughout his life.   He is currently a member of the Board of Directors at Meta House, Jabez Residential Living Center, and the Ozaukee Art Center.   He is active with Rotary Club of Milwaukee, Community Brainstorming and participates in a ministry at the House of Correction.   He was named "Man of the Year" in 2006 by Career Youth Development.